Virginia Lawmakers Consider Credit Card Ban for Sports Betting Deposits

Virginia Lawmakers Consider Credit Card Ban for Sports Betting Deposits
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Virginia lawmakers are reviewing House Bill 515 (HB 515), a proposal that would prohibit the use of credit cards for Virginia online sports betting deposits. 

The bill was introduced by Del. Marty Martinez as part of a broader effort to update gambling regulations and consumer protection standards in the state.

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Credit Card Restrictions and Responsible Gaming

HB 515 would block bettors from using credit cards to fund sports betting accounts, limiting deposits to other payment methods such as debit cards and bank transfers. Lawmakers cite concerns that credit cards allow wagering with borrowed funds, increasing the risk of debt and problem gambling.

Several Virginia sports betting apps, including DraftKings, have already removed credit cards as a payment option. Other states, including Illinois and Massachusetts, have also enacted similar restrictions.

Bill Process and Related Gambling Measures

The proposal is part of a wider legislative effort that includes potential changes to Virginia’s online gambling framework, such as legalizing online casinos and restricting sweepstakes-style gaming platforms.

HB 515 will move through the committee review process in the General Assembly. If approved, it would require passage by both legislative chambers before advancing to the governor for final consideration.

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Author

Calli Varner

Calli is lifelong resident of Arizona and has been an avid sports fan since she can remember. After earning her Bachelor’s degrees from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University, she combined her passion for journalism and sports. Calli has covered the NFL, NBA, MLB, NCAAF, college sports, and sports betting for several media outlets.

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